After decades of opposition, controversial Hong Kong security law set to pass I DW News

Legislators in Hong Kong are preparing to pass a controversial security law that has been criticized for its effect on human rights.

The law has long been demanded by China's central government in Beijing - which has increasingly asserted its authority on the island province of Hong Kong in recent years. Massive street protests in earlier years stopped the government from implementing the law, known as Article 23 for a provision in Hong Kong's constitution. But with many opposition activists in jail or in exile, it's expected to pass through parliament easily.

The new law would be part of Hong Kong's mini-constitution, which is separate from that of the Chinese mainland. Article 23 requires Hong Kong to suppress dissent and threats to the government. The new law contains broad provisions against treason, insurrection, espionage, "destructive activities endangering national security", and external interference. Human rights advocates say it dramatically undermines due process and fair trial rights.

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